Python minefield breaching system
The Python minefield breaching system is used by the British Army to clear minefields. It replaces the Giant Viper, and has the ability to clear a safe lane in minefields 180–200 m long and 7.3 m-wide (24 ft) through which vehicles can pass.
The system works by firing a single rocket from a launcher mounted on a 136-kilogramme trailer which has to be towed to the edge of the mined area. Attached to the rocket motor 250 mm L9 53 kg is a 228 m-long (748 ft) hose packed with 1455 kg of pe6/al explosive. After the hose lands on the ground it detonates and destroys over 90% of mines along its entire length. The 10% that are not destroyed are simply pushed aside to safety. It can be used in tandem to defeat double impulse mines or mines of greater depth. It also contains a 9 kg high-explosive substitute at the end with a .9 kg booster of pe4.[1]
Python has been used operationally with the Trojan AVRE in Afghanistan.[2] During Operation Moshtarak the Royal Engineers attempted to use this traditional mine clearance equipment in the Counter-IED role in support of a major British Army advance.[3]
See also
[edit | edit source]References
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External links
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